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~~((The Totally-Not-Random May 1st Special -- page 14 of 18))~~
'Well,' said Hanton, 'I may have caught wind of a peculiar rumor regarding Vantalay's reason for invading Czacoa. But it is only a rumor, Your Highness. You should not consider it fact.'

"Let's hear it," said the King.

'Mm, very well. Supposedly, the Vantalayan government felt that the Czacoan government was poaching their most valuable citizens and so decided that simply conquering Czacoa through military action would fix that problem.'

"Ah..."

'Again, I cannot speak to truth of this claim. As far as I am aware, the Vantalayan government has yet to make an official statement regarding its reasons for declaring war.'

"I see. Thank you for the information."

'You are welcome. And if we may return to the subject of Donald Elias, there is more I would say.'

"I'm listening."

'I cannot be sure, but it may be better to try to parley with the companies for his release. Even if he is not currently in their possession, they may have a means of acquiring him for us. But of course, meeting with them openly might also serve to irritate the Vantalayan government.' Hanton gave a deep sigh. 'But then AGAIN, the government there is quite busy with the war, so perhaps it would be easy to negotiate with the companies unnoticed.'

"You are presenting me with many options," the King observed, sounding mildly exasperated.

'An advisor's role is not to decide for you, Your Highness.'

"Heh. Eloquently said."

Hector's attention was abruptly diverted when the Scarf informed him that his recently appointed Stewardess of Warrenhold, Mara Rogers, had ascended the steps of the Entry Tower and was now approaching their group at a noticeably brisk walk. He made some soul-empowered armor for her as she got close, which seemed to surprise her quite a bit, as she stopped in her tracks.